Mouse Embryo and Spermatozoa Cryopreservation Course

Cryopreservation allows long-term storage of embryos and sperm, providing a convenient way to preserve, protect and transport mouse lines for use in research. Archiving scientifically relevant mouse lines also adheres to good animal welfare practices by removing the need for continued animal breeding and is integral to any comprehensive colony management programme. Running bi-annually since 2004, this course provides practical experience in murine embryo and spermatozoa freezing techniques routinely used at MRC Harwell and a simple, robust in vitro fertilisation procedure. The course will also cover the basic laboratory skills required when working in an assisted reproductive biology environment such as pipetting, weighing, microscope use, and embryo handling.